Core Strength Training - Sit Ups Are Not Enough!

Your core is the foundation of every move your body makes, and it is therefore crucial that everyone takes part in some form of core strength training. Most assume this to mean you have to do a bunch of sit ups, but sit ups are only the tip of the iceberg! This article is written to try to clear up some of the misconceptions people have about what their core is and what the proper way to train it is. By training your core the proper way, you have the opportunity to improve the quality of every type of move your body makes. That's how important your core is!What Does the Core Consist Of?
The core is more than just your abs. You have to come to grips with this before you can create an effective core strength training program. Many define the core as all muscle groups from your groin to your shoulders, including your chest. While this seems reasonable, my list will not include the chest. Here's the rest of the major muscle groups of the core:Hip Muscles

Gluteus maximus, medius and minimus: your behind/hip area

Hip flexors: front of pelvis

Pectineus: top inner thigh

Spinal Muscles

Erector Spinae: run along your neck down to your lower back

Multifidus: run under the erector spinae

Abdominals

Rectus Abdominis: the front of your abs, your hidden "six-pack"

Obliques: front to side of abdomen

Transverse Abdominis: run under your obliques and around spine

Core Strength Training Benefits
As As previously stated, your core is the foundation of all of the movements your limbs make. Here's a short list of some of the real-life, athletic benefits of core training:

Reduced risk of injury (your reduces the effects of force and impact on the body)

Better athletic performance

This is not an article about lower back exercise specifically, but lower back pain and injuries can frequently be attributed to insufficient core strength training! With that said, what's an effective way to train your core?Core Training ExercisesTraditional

Balance/Stability ball Exercises

Balance board work

Back Extensions

Sit-ups

I am proof positive that these exercises absolutely work, but you might not have the equipment you need, or you may be sick of doing sit-ups! If this is the case for you, or you simply prefer at home workouts, here are some less traditional yoga moves you can use to strengthen your core.Less Traditional

Bridge Pose

Revolved Abdominal Pose

Leg Lifts

Half Boat Pose

Plank Pose

Bow Pose

These exercises can be done at home without equipment and are excellent for core strength training purposes. Aside from being the most effective core training program I've used, yoga also increases flexibility, strength and coordination throughout your body! If you are truly interested in full body fitness, you should read my article on yoga for beginners.

If you truly wish to succeed at being in the best shape of your life, then you must visit the world's best resource. Go to Next Level Yoga immediately, to see how easily it can be done with at home workouts!